If you know why it’s called the “Achilles” tendon, you may feel like it’s also become your weakness. If you’re suffering from Achilles tendonitis pain, it can be everything from annoying to debilitating. Experienced foot and ankle experts are able to offer innovative solutions to treat this condition so you can eliminate pain and get back to active life.
At Arbor - Ypsi Foot & Ankle Centers, our entire team of doctors and staff are committed to providing the highest quality patient care and the most effective Achilles Tendonitis treatments in Ann Arbor. We will work alongside you and other members of your medical team to ensure that you receive just the right treatment plan for you and your particular needs.
Achilles Tendonitis is a condition that brings about intense pain in the heel. It occurs when the Achilles tendon undergoes damage due to excessive usage.
This injury can have significant ramifications as the Achilles tendon’s main function is to connect the lower half of the calf muscles to the heel bone. When the tendon is damaged, it can result in challenges with walking and performing everyday activities, accompanied by notable pain and discomfort.
It’s more common for athletes to experience Achilles tendon injuries, because they more often engage in repetitive motions such as jogging or running. Over time, these repetitive movements cause stress in the tendons. Athletes who abruptly intensify their performance without adequate training or warm-up are also susceptible to Achilles tendon injuries, which can result in stiffness in the calf muscles.
To prevent this type of injury, it is advisable to perform calf stretches once to three times a day to maintain flexibility in the area. Additionally, focusing on strengthening the calf muscles is recommended. If you suspect an Achilles tendon injury, there are measures you can take to help with the discomfort. Relief from pain can be achieved by applying ice, massaging the area, and incorporating gentle stretching exercises. If walking becomes difficult or if icing doesn't bring relief, it is strongly advised to seek professional care and guidance from a podiatrist for an appropriate Achilles Tendonitis treatment plan.
Those who are dealing with the pain and discomfort of Achilles Tendonitis have a wide variety of options for addressing this condition. Treating Achilles tendonitis can provide better quality of life and the ability to regain the full, normal function of the Achilles tendon. Exercise at full capacity again, take walks and hike without second thoughts about a pain flare-up, or just wake up in the morning without the area feeling tight or stiff. Treatment for Achilles tendonitis means:
Learning whether you’re a candidate for this treatment can be determined by getting imaging done and by talking to a specialist like the doctors at Arbor - Ypsi Foot & Ankle Centers.
Generally, candidates for our Ann Arbor Achilles Tendonitis treatment are experiencing pain in the Achilles tendon or may have a bony projection near the heel.
There are several different options that can be used to effectively treat Achilles tendonitis, depending on the severity.
Medications
The goal with medications is to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Sometimes, similar to temporary muscle soreness or other inflammatory concerns, OTC medications and some rest are enough to allow the area to heal on its own. For severe pain, your provider could also opt to use a corticosteroid injection.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is another non-invasive option that can effectively address Achilles tendonitis and is often the go-to if meds have not solved the problem. A physical therapist will use assorted heel and calf exercises and stretches to help loosen the Achilles tendon and improve flexibility.
Orthotics
There is also an assortment of orthotic devices that may be worn in the shoe as an insole or that wrap up around the ankle that can support and improve Achilles tendon function. These orthotics can aid with recovery since they take pressure off the tendon to allow for healing.
Surgical Treatment
If non-invasive methods fail to recuperate the Achilles tendon back to a satisfactory functional level, surgical intervention could be needed. The care experts at Arbor - Ypsi will evaluate your degree of Achilles Tendonitis, discuss other options you may have tried, and discuss whether surgery is a good option.
Our team of highly qualified and board-certified doctors at Arbor - Ypsi are educated, experienced, and dedicated to their patients. They strive to use the most innovative technology and solutions in order to help eliminate pain and improve overall quality of life.
If you are interested in learning more about Achilles Tendonitis Ann Arbor patients can call (734) 975-1700 today for a consultation.
Yes, the Achilles Tendonitis condition is very common, and many patients in the US and worldwide deal with the symptoms.
While working through the pain of tendonitis can be challenging at times, we do everything we can to help ease discomfort with the goal of our patients ultimately being pain-free.
The permanency of treatment for Achilles tendonitis depends on the extent of any damage and the time frame of treatment received. The sooner you see a specialist, the better chance you have of long-term or permanent recovery.
This varies greatly depending on what type of treatment will work best for a patient’s particular needs.
In many cases, especially when the condition interferes with daily life, treatment is covered by medical insurance. However, it is important to check with your provider to be sure.
Get relief today at Arbor - Ypsi Foot & Ankle Centers
At Arbor - Ypsi Foot & Ankle Centers in Ann Arbor, Michigan, we identify your unique foot and ankle needs and develop a highly effective and individualized treatment plan to resolve them. Our experts will work relentlessly to make you feel better and put your best foot forward.
